The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)
What is it?
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is a process for incorporating unbaptized individuals into the Catholic faith and community at the Easter Vigil through the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.
The RCIA is a journey of conversion and growth in one’s relationship with God and others. Assistance is given by a caring community through many means; sessions focusing on the unique aspects of Catholic belief, exploring the Scripture readings we hear proclaimed at Sunday Mass, group prayer and rituals, faith sharing, discussion, and incorporating our faith beliefs and experiences into everyday living. It is one thing to know what it is to be a Catholic and quite another to live as one...the RCIA seeks to help you live as one.
The RCIA - Only for the Unbaptized?
Though the RCIA is meant primarily for the unbaptized, it also has been adapted for those who have been baptized into another Christian faith tradition and seek union with the Catholic Church. The process can also include baptized but uninstructed Catholics who seek to complete full initiation in their faith (i.e. receive Confirmation and Eucharist).
